John Hotvet Presenting Attitudes for Success

On Thursday, November 29^th  the STRIVE Students and mentors were treated to John Hotvet’s presentation on Attitudes II about his life’s journey and some of the people along the way that influenced him and the important role that having a positive attitudes plays in life. 

In John’s calm and laid back manner he described his life leading up to becoming a “Vet” and how the 44 years “went by in a flash” as her pursued his passion and love of animals.  He talked about the elements and people in his life that shaped him as a person and as a professional.  John admits that he was painfully shy in school until he met Tommy Reichert who always had a great smile, a positive attitude and was a good student.  John decided to emulate these characteristics and they worked and he began to develop a winning personality and self-confidence.  In college his music director always told him “to believe in yourself” and he gained self confidence by believing in himself.  John explained to the STRIVE kids that it is O.K. to change your mind as he did going from an art/music major to Veterinarian School.   Wendell DeVore convinced John that he could do it and John made it through.

John talked about his time in the Army and what a great experience it was and learned to appreciate power.  He spoke about going in to practice and referred to it as the “best job in the World.” 

“I want to set the record straight about I.Q.; I.Q. is very overrated!” said Hotvet.  John went on to say that …“Intelligence is only one part of life.  Many other parts are just important such as having a positive attitude and hard work.  Don’t pay attention to it!        He ended with some hints about life:

            Treat people nice and make them comfortable.

            Find something you are passionate about and go for it!

            Don’t be afraid to change directions in life.

            Don’t procrastinate.

            Be optimistic and think positive.

            Don’t assume anything.

            Be diligent.

            Engage with others.

            Be caring, trustworthy and respectful.

            Learn to listen.

            Be inclusive, patient and humble.

            Do good.

            Do the best that you can.

            Do what you love and love what you’re doing.

And believe “I’m better than ever!”

Pictured here with John Hotvet is one of our STRIVE Student Theodore Rogney.